How a halfway house became a road toward freedom: a case study of the Kalatapae community

Abstract

Purpose: A common challenge found in the establishment and operation of a halfway house is the local community’s opposition, which can lead to community disengagement and the exclusion of the halfway house residents from the locality. This study aims to examine, and present a unique, alternate experience of the Kalatapae halfway house, which is located in a less privileged community in the southern part of Thailand. Design/methodology/approach: The study uses mixed methods by using a qualitative methodology through conducting in-depth interviews with 16 halfway house residents and the house’s manager, and a focus group with government officials and adopting a quantitative methodology through conducting public surveys with the local residents in Kalatapae and its 6 other surrounding communities to inquire about their support for the halfway house and its residents. Findings: The study found certain key factors that help secure emotional support for the halfway house residents through the local community’s acceptance. These are needs recognition of the house residents, community involvement and the perceived mutual benefits gained by the community from the operation of the halfway house. The community’s positive social engagement arguably increases the ability of the halfway house residents to desist from crime and better facilitate their transition back into society. Research limitations/implications: The quantitative data were analyzed based on the frequency of responses to quantify the overall level of support of the local residents. Individual factors that would have an effect on the responses were not determined. Practical implications: The experience can serve as a strategy for operating other halfway houses to facilitate transition and reintegration of the house’s residents into the society. Originality/value: The study provides a practical aspect in the implementation of an aftercare program by presenting new key elements for a halfway house to secure local community acceptance and maintain a positive relationship with the halfway house's residents.